Whitney Size Model No one and one half Breechloading revolver

SN 808

The years following the American Civil War saw the rise of host
of companies that produced small, inexpensive metallic cartridge
handguns. Product lines ran from copies of firearms by established
manufacturers including Smith & Wesson, to derringers and
pepperbox pistols, small spur-trigger and folding-trigger pocket
revolvers and "Velo Dog" pistols.

Some companies manufactured arms under a variety of different
names. Corporate names still familiar today saw their beginnings
during this period, including Harrington & Richardson and Iver
Johnson. Other companies, such as Forehand & Wadsworth, Hopkins
and Allen, Merwin Hulbert & Co., prospered for a time before
eventually closing, but most firms appeared on the scene for a
brief period before vanishing into obscurity. Such names as
"Bang-up," "Little Giant," "Swamp Angel," and "Tramp's Terror" were
some of the many names under which these pistols were marketed by
long-forgotten firms. In addition to American-produced examples,
European arms also found a niche in the marketplace.

Characteristics of these pistols vary widely. Some were
single-shot, while others possessed six- or seven-shot capacity,
and at least one revolver utilized two cylinders which yielded a
total of 14 shots. Most were small caliber single-action arms which
utilized either .22 or .32 rimfire cartridges, although
double-action revolvers chambered for .38 centerfire ammunition
were also produced. Derringers were typically available in .41 or
.44 caliber. An assortment of features could be found, including
brass- or steel-framed models; various butt profiles; round- or
octagonal-barrels; fluted or smooth cylinders; bead, post, or
half-disc front sights; top-strap or open-frame; removable side
plates; pivoting top- or side-break mechanisms, some with automatic
ejection systems, were available in this class of sidearms.

Although higher-quality pocket pistols were produced by several
different manufacturers, many guns of this type were inexpensive,
low-quality, mass-produced arms. From a collector's standpoint,
these guns have not generated a great amount of interest, perhaps
because they have little historical significance. Some, however,
exhibit features often seen on more expensive arms, including ivory
or deluxe walnut grips, nickel or gold plating, and elaborate
engraving, and are worthy of a place beside fine firearms by Colt,
Remington, or Smith & Wesson in the collector's case.